Posted in Category : Common Ailments | May 22, 2009

Liver Cleansing Diet

Liver cleansing diets are often suggested to detoxify your system. Everything that we consume passes through the liver through our blood stream. The liver is responsible for detoxification and so a liver cleansing diet aids in the detoxifying process. A liver cleansing diet puts a minimal load on the liver and as the liver is able to regenerate lost tissue, this diet aids in the faster regeneration of tissue.

Foods that contain additives and preservatives or foods that are high in artificial or natural sugar are high in toxins and place an unnecessary strain on the liver. Therefore these foods must be completely avoided while a person is on a liver cleansing diet. The first few days of a liver cleansing diet are designed to concentrate on and attempt removal of the excess build up of these toxins. For the first few days of the diet, it is recommended that you avoid red meats, junk food, bread rich recipes, salt rich foods and deep or shallow fried foods. Caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks should also be avoided. A person on a liver cleansing diet should increase their intake of fruits and fruit juices. It is preferable that you restrict your intake of high sugar fruits like mangoes and bananas. Uncooked vegetables and vegetable juices and fresh salads which have fresh vegetables like spinach, lettuce, carrots, tomato, cucumber, sprouts and so on should be included in every meal. Drink plenty of water during the first few days of this diet as this will help the body to flush out the toxins.

Eventually, you can start eating meats and other cooked vegetables but continue to avoid high sugar foods. Try and make raw vegetables and fruits a regular part of your diet, as this helps to cleanse your system. Organic foods are a rich source of antioxidants which help the process of liver cleansing. These foods also contain a higher level of natural minerals than non organic foods. These minerals are considered to be essential in the overall liver cleansing process. Dairy and dairy products obtained from organic animals are also considered to be high in natural antioxidants. Because of these benefits, switching to a whole or even a partial organic diet may have lasting health benefits.

If you are not used to a regular intake of fruits and vegetables in your diet, you may experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue or nausea at the onset of this diet. If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to consult your doctor immediately. Before going on a liver cleansing diet it is also advisable that you consult your nutritionist who will be able to form a diet plan that is specifically designed to your needs.

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